DEL Functional Anatomy

Overview

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  

In this six-week asynchronous course, students will be introduced to the basic principles affecting the anatomical structure of the human body.

Students will work to heighten understanding of the anatomy of moving bodies, including dynamic alignment and postural control, with laboratory applications for many movement practices. Students explore the musculoskeletal system and embodiment of functional anatomy explorations.They will learn anatomical names and terms that will inform their lives as dancers, dance educators, and humans. Current functional anatomy research is applied to concepts of movement analysis, alignment assessment, and performance enhancement. Students will explore their own body’s potential and learn tools to apply functional anatomy practices in their dance classrooms. Each asynchronous module will include the following components:

• Discover: Watch the video & read the slides to provide base/foundational information on the topic
• Deepen: Read the assignment to deepen understanding of content
• Dance: dance, embody, investigate, explore the content through movement prompt
• Dive in: Write reflection on application into personal movement practice and teaching practice
• Demonstrate Knowledge: Take a quiz to deepen understanding!

Students will also be asked to secure a copy of the required reading: Haas, J. G. (2025). Dance Anatomy 3rd edition. Champagne, IL: Human Kinetics.

Course Format: Asynchronous - All course material online! Students receive access to all course materials for 1 Year.

Prerequisites: None

Study Options: Independent Study or Facilitated Study

Independent Study

Independent Study courses offer students the freedom to learn at their own pace, allowing them to dedicate as much or as little time to the material as they choose. With no set deadlines, students have full control over the timing and progression of their learning. This format is best suited for those who prefer to study independently and autonomously. Students will retain access to course materials for one year, providing ample opportunity to revisit and review content at their convenience.

INDEPENDENT STUDY REGISTRANTS WILL RECEIVE COURSE ACCESS THE TUESDAY FOLLOWING THEIR REGISTRATION

Facilitated Study

Facilitated Study courses offer a more structured and interactive learning experience, ideal for students who value consistent feedback, community engagement, and a clear course timeline. Students will submit weekly assignments, along with a final assignment, and receive written feedback from facilitators. Courses may include discussion boards for peer interaction and all feature a mid-course Zoom meeting where students can meet their cohort, engage with peers, and connect directly with the course facilitator for additional support and guidance. Designed for students who thrive in a guided, collaborative setting, this format requires approximately 3 hours of engagement per week. Additionally, all Facilitated Study courses are eligible for undergraduate credit through DEL's partnership with SUNY Empire State University for a separate and additional fee. 

Facilitated Study Course Dates:  November 2 – December 13, 2026, with final assignments due Dec 27, 2026.

Credits:

Students may take this course for SUNY Empire State University credit for a separate and additional fee, and will receive 4 undergraduate credits. 

Educators can also receive New York State CTLE credits for completed DEL courses.

Discounts:

• NYCDOE dance specialists get 50% off every DEL course.
• NYCDOE common branch teachers get 10% off every DEL course.
• NYCDOE Arnhold New Teachers get DEL courses free for their first and second year teaching in the DOE.

Scholarships: Scholarships are available through 92NY. General 92NY scholarship information and applications are found HERE. 

Must register by Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to DanceEdLab@92ny.org.

Photo by Cherylynn Tsushima for Nel Shelby Productions.